Authorities in Houston, Texas, are investigating the shooting of an 18-year-old who was in his backyard, burying his recently deceased guinea pig. The tragic incident occurred shortly after 12:30 a.m. on Thursday, July 17, when the teen was shot while performing the somber task of laying his pet to rest.
Details of the Incident
The victim, whose name has not been released by police, was in his backyard with his brother, burying his guinea pig, named “Cookie,” which had died the previous day. According to reports from WFAA, Click 2 Houston, and FOX 26 Houston, the teen’s mother, Andrea, explained that her son did not have time to bury Cookie right away and chose to do so late at night on their property. She also emphasized that her son never stepped onto the neighbor’s property while burying the animal.
Tragically, while the teen was in the process of burying Cookie, he was shot. Surveillance footage obtained by WFAA shows the victim stumbling toward his door after the attack. In a heartbreaking moment, the teenager reportedly managed to reach his mother and uttered a final message: “Mom, I love you. Dad, I love you, I’m not going to make it.”
The Shooter and Investigation
Authorities believe the shooter to be a neighbor of the victim, but the identity of the suspect has not been revealed. The motive for the shooting remains unclear, and an investigation is ongoing. Despite the severity of his injuries, the victim survived the attack and is currently recovering, according to Click 2 Houston.
This tragic incident has shocked the Houston community, especially given the peaceful nature of the victim’s actions before the attack. Authorities continue to investigate the shooting, with more details expected as the case progresses.
